The way I understand it you cannot upgrade or buy most PS editions without going on the monthly plan. Since I got started with digital processing later than most of you, I was forced into the monthly plan.

That said, if you're happy with what you have, and don't feel the need to upgrade, you can avoid the subscription until you need support. In my case, I have not yet really learned PS, and I process with LR, which I find to be more intuitive. PS, on the other hand, has more features that I see referenced on this board that I have yet to try.

Depends on what you want! I am more than happy with Photoshop Elements, which I only upgrade every 3-4 years, for $80 or so, vs . $120/year for PS. Waaay more than adequate for RP, also for channel mixing in B/W, lots of other stuff. I certainly don't use all its capabilities, and while not sophisticated I do some non-beginner stuff, selective post-processing of all sorts, for example. I can spend a fair amount of time on certain shots. More than they are worth.

I have this deal and I must say, it's MUCH cheaper to have photoshop and lightroom by paying $10/month than to buy the programs outright. What did they used to cost...$600-700 or more? And then there were the upgrade prices every few years. Do the math and think about that.

By charging $10/month, Adobe has made these program accessible for EVERYONE. In the long run, I bet they are making more money.

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